Baseball players and leagues can choose to use wood or aluminum bats. Wood and aluminum have their pros and cons when it comes to price, performance, safety and durability. Before you head down to the local sporting goods store, it's a good idea to compare the two.
Price
The cost of an adult aluminum baseball bat starts at about $100 in 2010. You can still find wood bats made of ash for $30, but you can also spend upwards of $100 for maple, bamboo or cherry bats. While aluminum bats come with cushioned leather handles, wood bats sometimes require an additional purchase, namely a batting glove or some tape for the handle.
Performance
Wood and aluminum bats perform differently. In a game in which wood bats are used there generally is more strategy involved (bunting, hit-and-run attempts), and the games are generally lower scoring. In wood bats, the weight is distributed differently than in aluminum bats. Wood bats are considered top heavy (more weight in the barrel end), which makes getting the barrel on the ball more challenging. Studies have shown the ball does not carry as well off a wood bat. Aluminum bats of the same weight and length as wood bats drive the ball farther. Aluminum bats have bigger barrels and use different alloys to make them lighter. This combination increases bat speed, causing the ball to travel greater distances.
Safety
Because baseballs jump off aluminum bats, fielders have less time to react. In recent years, the number of pitchers and third basemen seriously injured by batted balls off a metal bat has raised many eyebrows. It has prompted scientists to develop a formula called the Ball-Exit-Speed-Ratio (BESR), which basically acknowledges that the ball flies off an aluminum bat at a higher rate of speed and travels greater distances. However, wood bats can also break, causing large pieces, traveling at high speeds, to be propelled at defensive players or fans.
Durability
Aluminum bats were initially designed as a more durable alternative to wood bats. Aluminum bats last a lot longer and, in the long run, save leagues and players money. Some players go through several wood bats during the course of a regular season, due to breaks and chips.
Expert Insight
Whether you decide to buy aluminum or wood, the key to hitting is getting the barrel through the hitting zone quickly with good balance. Buying a shiny $400 metal bat, or the same wood model as your favorite major league player, will not automatically make you a good hitter. Buy a bat that is a good weight and length for your swing.
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